Middleton enjoys every second of SMU visit

James Bryant

12/07/2008

One Southern Methodist University official visitor was a little uncertain what to expect before he arrived. Coming from California, Lazarri Middleton wasn't sure exactly what to expect, the Mustangs exceeded expectations, leaving a hard decision for the talented defensive back. Did Middleton make a decision on his trip, go inside for the latest on his recruitment.

One Southern Methodist University official visitor was a little uncertain what to expect before he arrived.

"It was a great visit," Middleton told PonyStampede.com. "I enjoyed every second of the day, both days I was there."

Middleton has three offers so far, one from SMU, the others from Nebraska and Idaho State. Was SMU better than he expected it to be?

"Most definitely it was," Middleton said. "It was a lot nicer than I expected it to be. The current players are such a tight group with each other and the coaching staff. The desire they have to turn this program around is amazing."

One thing that impressed the 6-foot-1, 195-pound corner back who runs a 4.4 forty, was the academic prestige of SMU.

"I didn't realize how great an education I could get at SMU," Middleton said. "I got to the academic side of things, that's important to me."

Did Middleton get close to pulling the trigger and commit to the Mustangs?

"Coach (June) Jones made it clear I was one of the players he really wanted," Middleton said. "I didn't commit, but I have a lot to think about and a lot to discuss with my parents when I get home."

Middleton did explain he wanted something to compare SMU with before making a final decision.

"I loved my visit to SMU," Middleton explained. "I just want to take my Nebraska visit so I can compare it to something. A decision might come before I take the visit, I will just have to wait and see, I need to discuss things with my parents first."

Middleton was impressed with the SMU campus.

"I thought the campus was everything a college campus was suppose to be, I loved it there," Middleton said. "What a great atmosphere. We ate better than I ever expected. What a weekend."

Middleton explained that he witnessed a lot of excitement both from the current SMU players, coaches and even the official visitors in attendance.

"Everyone is pumped up about SMU football," Middleton said. "When we went out at night, a lot of students are starting to get excited about SMU again. It would be great to be a part of something like that."